CVE-2022-42043 in d8s-xml
Summary
by MITRE • 10/12/2022
The d8s-xml package for Python, as distributed on PyPI, included a potential code-execution backdoor inserted by a third party. The backdoor is the democritus-html package. The affected version is 0.1.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-42043 represents a sophisticated supply chain attack targeting the Python package ecosystem through the d8s-xml package distributed via PyPI. This security incident demonstrates how attackers can compromise software dependencies by embedding malicious code within legitimate-looking packages, creating a significant risk for developers who rely on third-party libraries. The backdoor was specifically introduced through the democritus-html package, which was integrated into the d8s-xml dependency chain, illustrating the complex nature of modern software supply chain vulnerabilities.
The technical flaw lies in the malicious inclusion of the democritus-html package within the d8s-xml package version 0.1.0, which creates an unexpected code execution vector when the compromised package is installed and used by developers. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-494, which describes the acquisition of a malicious component that can execute code, and represents a classic example of a malicious package attack that bypasses traditional security measures. The backdoor functionality allows for arbitrary code execution on systems where the compromised package is installed, potentially enabling attackers to gain unauthorized access to development environments, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access points.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally undermines the trust model of package repositories and creates cascading security risks for organizations that depend on Python packages for their applications. When developers install packages from PyPI without proper verification, they unknowingly introduce potential attack vectors into their development workflows. This vulnerability specifically affects Python developers who use the d8s-xml package, potentially exposing their systems to remote code execution capabilities that could be leveraged for data exfiltration, system compromise, or further lateral movement within network environments.
Organizations and developers should implement comprehensive package verification procedures including dependency auditing, source code review of critical packages, and implementation of automated security scanning tools to detect malicious packages before installation. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining updated security practices and adopting secure software development lifecycle approaches that include supply chain security controls. Mitigation strategies should include immediate removal of the affected package from all systems, implementation of package signature verification mechanisms, and regular security assessments of all third-party dependencies. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1133 which covers external remote services, and demonstrates the critical need for organizations to establish robust security controls around software supply chain management to prevent similar incidents from compromising their security posture.